Functions of the M-CSF receptor on osteoclasts

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Published on: March 18, 2019

S Yang1, Y Zhang, R M Rodriguiz

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA.

Bone
|April 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) activates osteoclasts, enhancing bone resorption. This study demonstrates M-CSF binding stimulates osteoclast activity and increases bone resorption in mouse calvarial explants.

Area of Science:

  • Bone Biology
  • Cell Signaling
  • Osteoclast Biology

Background:

  • Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) receptor is present in osteoclasts.
  • Biochemical interactions between M-CSF and its receptor on osteoclasts are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the biochemical interactions between M-CSF and its receptor on osteoclasts.
  • To determine the effect of M-CSF on osteoclast function and bone resorption.

Main Methods:

  • Autoradiography to assess M-CSF ligand binding to osteoclast receptors.
  • Immunostaining to detect protein tyrosine phosphorylation.
  • Measurement of oxygen-derived free radicals produced by osteoclasts.
  • Assessment of bone resorption in calvarial explants.

Main Results:

  • 125I-labeled M-CSF specifically binds to the M-CSF receptor on osteoclasts.
  • M-CSF binding stimulates protein tyrosine phosphorylation in osteoclasts.
  • M-CSF stimulation increases oxygen-derived free radical production by osteoclasts.
  • M-CSF enhances bone resorption in calvarial explants.

Conclusions:

  • Mouse calvarial osteoclasts are activated by M-CSF.
  • M-CSF stimulates osteoclastic bone resorption.
  • These findings suggest M-CSF plays a role in regulating bone resorption in the calvarial model.

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